We got the chance to read the first issue of Coven Cove, and it is exactly the kind of comic we love: magical, mysterious, and full of that small-town supernatural charm that makes you instantly want more. Let’s talk about it!

Coven Cove #1
Publisher: Two Gargoyles Comics
Writer: Michael McAdam
Artist: Andy Zurita
Letterer: Michael McAdam

Coven Cove is written by Michael McAdam, and we were already excited before even opening the book. We’ve read and reviewed his other works like Spectrum and Gloaming, two very different series that we both loved. Honestly, we’ve yet to find a story of his that doesn’t hook us. The art comes from Andy Zurita, with a style that captures the mix of magic, mystery, and small-town charm perfectly.

The story is set in a small town in Prince Edward Island, founded by witches generations ago. In the present day we follow Dylan Croft, a young man who has The Sight, which means he can see ghosts and supernatural beings that most people can’t. From childhood we see how he discovers this gift and learns what it means, guided by his nan who teaches him about his powers and his heritage as a witch. Now, 15 years later, Dylan is still learning what it means to live in a place where magic is everywhere and the supernatural is always close by. The book blends the feeling of everyday small-town life with witches and ghosts, while hinting that Dylan and his friends are on the edge of something much bigger…

Everything about Coven Cove is exactly our thing: witches, supernatural elements, a hint of horror, a touch of comedy, and a magical setting that feels alive. The title itself caught us right away (I mean, we’re the Comics Warlocks), and it just fits.

What makes it work is how fresh it feels. The art has a charm that makes the story and characters stand out, and it works perfectly with the way the story unfolds. For example, the first ghost Dylan encounters as a child is creepy at first but turns into an oddly touching moment. And Dylan’s nan telling him that The Sight is not only about seeing with your eyes but with your heart really sets the tone.

Back in the present, Dylan still feels like that same good kid, just grown up, and now we get to see how he uses his magic while meeting his friends who practice different kinds of magic. The whole town vibe is fantastic. Honestly, I’d move there if I could. I also loved the detail that all the town’s founders were witches. That instantly gave the series a special identity, described as a “Canadian Salem without the trials,” which is quite fun (and might be a little worrying?). This first issue is a strong setup, and it really feels like things are about to get moving fast.

We both loved this first issue of Coven Cove. It’s original, fresh, and the kind of comic that instantly makes you want more. If you want to follow along, the series is available on Substack with updates every Tuesday and Thursday – and here’s the link. You can read it for free, and honestly, if you don’t already have a Substack account, now’s the time to conjure one up. Consider it a small spell to unlock a very good comic book.